2021 BMW X3 vs 2021 Volvo XC40

The 2021 Volvo XC40 showcased a traditional SUV design, characterized by its tall, flat roof and upright rear hatch, aligning well with the rest of Volvo's lineup through features like the “Thor’s Hammer” LED headlights and a simple oval grille. Gasoline models offered a retro touch with a white contrasting roof. The XC40 Recharge differentiated itself with a blanked-off grille, unique badging, and model-specific alloy wheels, along with a gloss black roof and mirror caps. It also featured a distinct rear bumper and a model-exclusive Sage Green Metallic color. The interior was minimalist yet premium, with real metal trim and a combination of Nappa leather and Nubuck textile upholstery, creating a coherent and upscale cabin environment.

In contrast, the 2021 BMW X3, part of its third generation, had undergone significant refinements since its 2018 redesign. It presented a downsized version of the BMW X5, with a cold, mechanical interior styling typical of BMW's lineup. While not as visually appealing as some competitors, the X3's dashboard was highly functional. The X3 offered several trims, including the sDrive30i, xDrive30i, M40i, and the xDrive30e plug-in hybrid, each with varying levels of standard and optional features. The M40i trim stood out with its unique exterior styling and M Sport suspension, providing a more performance-oriented experience.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 offered a diverse powertrain lineup, with the electric Recharge model at the top. The gasoline options included a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base FWD T4 produced 187 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque, while the AWD T5 delivered 248 hp and 258 lb-ft. The Recharge model shared its powertrain with the Polestar 2, featuring dual electric motors for a combined 402 hp and 486 lb-ft, powered by a 78-kilowatt-hour battery pack. The Recharge accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds, while the T5 and T4 took 6.1 and 8.1 seconds, respectively. All versions were electronically limited to 112 mph. The Recharge emphasized luxury and comfort, offering excellent ride quality and one-pedal driving capability, with a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds.

The 2021 BMW X3 sDrive30i and xDrive30i were equipped with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 248 horsepower through an eight-speed automatic transmission. The sDrive30i featured rear-wheel drive, while the xDrive30i had all-wheel drive. The xDrive30e plug-in hybrid delivered 288 hp and offered brisk acceleration, with a 17-mile electric-only range. The M40i trim boasted a 382-hp twin-turbo inline-six engine, providing robust acceleration and enhanced cornering abilities. For those seeking even more performance, the X3 M model offered 473 hp, catering to speed enthusiasts who also needed family space.

The 2021 Volvo XC40, both in its Recharge and gasoline variants, offered no difference in passenger or cargo space. However, it was not particularly spacious, with less legroom and headroom compared to competitors like the Tesla Model Y and Ford Mustang Mach-E. The cargo area was also smaller, and the frunk was limited due to powertrain hardware. Despite this, Volvo incorporated clever storage solutions, such as a removable trash bin in the center console and large door bins, thanks to the relocation of the Harman Kardon system's speakers. A wireless charging pad was optional, but second-row occupants lacked phone-charging options.

The 2021 BMW X3 excelled in interior space, offering up to 62.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, and 28.7 cubic feet with them in use. A power liftgate was standard, with a hands-free option available. The X3 provided ample headroom and legroom for all passengers, with a commanding driving position. The interior featured real buttons and dials alongside the main touchscreen, enhancing usability for drivers and passengers alike.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge introduced the Android Automotive OS infotainment system, featuring Google apps like Google Assistant and Google Maps. Gasoline models retained the previous system. The standard setup included a 9-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The Recharge model also offered OTA update capability, allowing for software updates without visiting a dealership. It lacked a start button, relying on a key fob for operation, and while the Polestar 2 was set to receive a Digital Key feature, it was not confirmed for the XC40.

The 2021 BMW X3 came standard with a 10.2-inch touchscreen running the iDrive infotainment system, known for its ease of use. It offered both touch operation and an iDrive dial, catering to different user preferences. Apple CarPlay was standard, while Android Auto was optional. Additional options included wireless device charging, a fully digital instrument panel, and a 16-speaker Harman Kardon stereo system. Gesture control was also available, allowing basic controls through hand movements.

The gasoline 2021 Volvo XC40 received top safety ratings, including the “Top Safety Pick+” from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. The electric XC40 Recharge was expected to perform well in crash tests, thanks to a safety cage around the battery and a redesigned front crash structure. Standard safety features included lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and more. The Recharge model featured Volvo’s latest sensor suite, capable of future updates for advanced driver aids.

The 2021 BMW X3 came standard with advanced driver-assistance features such as automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, and lane departure warning. It also included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and front-and-rear parking sensors. Optional safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and a head-up display.